Have you ever watched Crufts on television and dreamed of showing your dog but didn’t know how to go about it? Maybe you recently bought a dog and are curious about dog showing? Or perhaps you don’t even own a dog at present but are interested in seeing what dogs shows are all about?
If any of the above sounds like you, then Have a Go dog shows – specially designed to assist newcomers – are more than likely the answer! They will help you to obtain the confidence and skills required in order to enjoy a fun day out with your dog while socialising with fellow dog lovers who share a common hobby.
Throughout 2019, nine ‘all breeds shows’ which feature every breed of pedigree dog are to hold a smaller Have a Go dog show on one day of their main event.
The shows concerned are:
- Manchester (held in Staffordshire) – January
- Birmingham National (Staffordshire) – May
- Scottish Kennel Club (Midlothian) – May
- Bath (Somerset) – May
- Windsor (Berkshire) – June
- Leeds (West Yorkshire) – July
- Welsh Kennel Club (Powys) – August
- Darlington (North Yorkshire) – September
- Ladies’ Kennel Association (West Midlands) – December
These Have a Go dog shows will be the perfect opportunity for someone new to the world of pedigree dogs to take part in a training day and understand what it takes to be involved in dog showing.
The cost will be £10 per attendee (includes a beginner’s dog showing pack). Some shows are subject to a car parking fee – please check the Kennel Club website when making a booking.
The following topics will be covered on the day:
- Getting ready for taking part
- Basic skills required for participating
- What to expect when participating
- What to do once you have participated
Each participant will be matched with a mentor who will offer support and provide them with the skills needed to take part in dog shows with confidence.
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: “Have a Go dog shows have been designed with the newcomer specifically in mind. Those of us who have competed in dog shows for a number of years tend to forget that it can be quite a daunting prospect for someone taking their first few tentative steps. These special training days offer a relaxed atmosphere where questions can be asked and someone is on hand to offer advice throughout the day. We really hope people will come along and enjoy the experience.”
Details of the Manchester Have a Go event in Staffordshire on Saturday 19th January are already finalised and a full list of shows, venues and contact details is available on the Kennel Club website.
General enquiries about Have a Go dog shows should email our breed shows team.